Interest in using seaweed as food is growing in Nordic countries and in other countries in Europe. Seaweed is the biggest aquaculture product in the world, yet there are still no international standards on food safety, such as Codex standards or guidelines or EU legislation on for seaweed. In Europe there is limited experience of using seaweed, and little is known about potential risks and benefits to human health when it is consumed. Guidance is needed for both producers and public agencies to ensure food safety. A common Nordic approach is called for, in view of the differences globally and within Europe. The scope of this report covers food safety aspects of seaweed with the main focus on chemical and microbiological food hazards.